What’s Included in a Shasta Base Pool—and What Costs Extra?

Not sure what’s included in a Shasta base pool—and worried upgrades will break the bank?

You’re not alone. Many Arizona homeowners are excited to build their dream backyard, but don’t want to be surprised by hidden upgrade costs halfway through.

Here’s the good news: We make it easy to understand what’s standard and what’s optional.

In this article, you’ll see exactly:

• What comes in the base Shasta pool package
• What’s considered an upgrade (and how much more it costs)
• Whether you can mix and match features
• And how to build a pool that fits your lifestyle and your budget

Let’s break it all down in plain English—no confusing builder-speak here.

What Do I Get With a Shasta Base Pool Package?

Included in every Shasta Normal Pool (our base package):

• Pool shell with standard size and shape
• High-efficiency pump and filter
• Standard white LED light
• Classic tile at the waterline
• Basic plaster interior finish
• Manual timer or time clock
• Steps and benches for entry/exit

It’s everything you need to swim and enjoy right away.

Is the base price for a fully usable pool?

Yes, the base pool is 100% swim-ready. You can fill it up, splash around, and cool off—no upgrades required. But many homeowners choose to add extra features for comfort, style, or convenience.

Does Shasta Include Permits and Excavation in the Base Price?

Yes—permits, inspections, and excavation are included.
You don’t have to chase paperwork or rent a backhoe. We handle:

• City permits
• Excavation and grading
• Required safety inspections

What Pool Interior Finish Comes With the Base Package?

You’ll get a classic white or gray plaster interior—it’s clean, simple, and functional.

Want a smoother or more luxurious feel? PebbleTec or quartz finishes are available as upgrades.

What Pool Upgrades Do Arizona Homeowners Most Often Choose?

Pool Materials Like Tile or Decking

If you want to upgrade from the basics, you’ll pay more for:

• Glass or mosaic tile
• Travertine or paver decking
• Stamped or brushed finishes

These upgrades don’t just look better—they often last longer too.

Pool Features

These are optional pool features and upgrades – like lighting, seating, and water effects – that enhance the look, comfort, and functionality of your pool beyond the basic design.

• Color-changing lights
• Baja shelves (tanning ledges)
• Automation (app control)
• Fire features
• Spas or built-in seating
• Waterfalls or bubblers

If it feels fancy, it’s probably an upgrade.

Landscaping, Pergolas, and Kitchens

These are considered separate outdoor living features and are priced individually—but they can all be designed to complement your pool and create a cohesive backyard experience.

• Landscaping includes the plants, turf, lighting, and decorative elements that bring your yard to life and frame your pool beautifully. Many homeowners choose to landscape during pool construction to avoid future disruption and ensure the whole yard feels complete from day one.
  
  
• Pergolas are shade structures that create a comfortable space to relax, dine, or entertain poolside. They add architectural interest and can be customized with lighting, fans, or even curtains.
  
  
• Outdoor Kitchens include built-in grills, counters, sinks, and storage—perfect for hosting and making the most of Arizona’s outdoor lifestyle. Pool buyers often add kitchens to extend the use of their backyard for meals and gatherings.
  
  

While these upgrades are separate from the pool itself, many homeowners choose to plan them together so everything works as one unified space.

What Small Pool Upgrades Make a Big Difference Without Big Cost?

Looking for a budget-friendly impact? Consider:

• Upgraded tile (starts around a few hundred dollars)
• Tanning ledge with two bubblers
• Brushed concrete for a cleaner deck finish
• Single-deck jet for fun water movement

Can I Combine Base and Premium Pool Features in One Design?

Yes! This is the sweet spot for many families.

You can keep the standard equipment but upgrade the deck or interior finish. Or skip water features and add lighting instead.

Most customers build “semi-custom” pools with a few smart upgrades.

What’s an Example of a Semi-Custom Shasta Pool?

Here’s one common combo:

• Base pool shell
• PebbleSheen finish
• Travertine decking
• Color LED light
• Baja shelf

That’s a big upgrade in looks and comfort, but still under Signature Series pricing.

How Much Does a Shasta Base Pool Cost to Start?

The entry price for most Shasta Base Pools start around $65,000–$85,000, depending on your yard and layout.

How Much Do Arizona Families Typically Spend on Pool Upgrades?

Most families invest $100,000–$150,000 total with upgrades. Some go all out and build a Signature Series Pool—those start at $250,000+.

Does Shasta Offer Different Price Tiers or Packages?

Yes, we offer:

• Base Pool (Shasta Normal)
• Semi-Custom (Base + Upgrades)
• Signature Series (Fully custom, premium upgrades)

Why Are Some Pool Upgrades More Expensive Than Others?

Three factors that impact the cost of upgrades are labor, materials, or long-term value. For example:

• PebbleTec is more expensive than plaster, but it lasts longer.
• Glass tile looks amazing but takes more time to install.
• Automation saves time but adds tech costs.
• You’re paying for materials and how much work it takes to install them.

Which Pool Upgrades Will I Enjoy the Most Every Day?

Top-rated favorites:

• Baja shelf for kids and sunbathing
• LED color lighting for evening swims
• App control for pool settings from your phone

Which Upgrades Increase My Home’s Resale Value the Most?

• Pebble or quartz interior
• Travertine or upscale decking
• Built-in spa
• Smart automation

Will I Get a Transparent Price Before Signing a Shasta Contract?

At Shasta we believe in price transparency. No bait-and-switch. You’ll know exactly what you’re getting. We provide an itemized proposal with:

How do we do that?

Before you ever sign a contract, we provide a fully itemized proposal that includes:

• A detailed base price for your pool
• A clear list of optional upgrades with individual pricing

• The final total cost – so there are no surprise later.

Our team also takes precise measurements of your yard during the design phase to ensure the proposal reflects your actual space and build needs. This way, you’re not hit with unexpected “site condition” charges down the line. Every pool is custom, but your quote won’t feel like guesswork. You’ll know exactly what’s included and what each item costs – before you commit to the construction.

Will Shasta Help Me Choose the Right Pool Features?

You’ll work with a design consultant who helps you:

• Understand what’s included
• Compare upgrade options
• Stay on budget

What Tools or Visuals Help Me Pick My Pool Upgrades?

• Showroom samples
• Pool visualizer tool
• Photos from real Arizona projects

Which Pool Upgrades Can Be Added Later Without Trouble?

Planning ahead helps, but you don’t need to do it all in one day. These items are easy to add later:

• Deck jets
• Pergolas
• Fire features
• Extra landscaping

What Pool Features Are Harder to Add After Construction?

There are some features that are harder or more expensive to add later. If you think you might want them later, it’s often cheaper to add them now.

• Pebble finish
• Spa
• Baja shelf
• Plumbing and automation

Will Shasta Help Me Design a Pool That I Can Upgrade Later?

Yes. We’ll help you:

• Pre-plan plumbing or electric
• Leave space for future features
• Phase your project to match your budget

What Do Base vs. Upgraded Shasta Pools Actually Look Like?

Here’s a Side-by-Side Example:

What Do Real Shasta Pools Cost Based on Features?

How Do Different Families Choose Different Pool Features?

• Young families: Baja shelf + shade
• Entertainers: Outdoor kitchen + lighting
• Retired couples: Spa + quiet features + automation

FAQs About Shasta Pool Packages and Pricing

• Is the equipment from the base package energy efficient?
  Yes. Our pumps and filters meet modern efficiency standards—and can be upgraded if needed.
  
  
• Are there financing options for upgrades?
  Yes, we can bundle upgrades into your overall pool financing package.
  
  
• Can I change my mind about upgrades during the project?
  It depends on where we are in the build, but we’ll always do our best to make adjustments.

Ready to Compare Base Packages and Upgrade Options?

The best way to understand what your dream pool might look like—and cost—is by scheduling a free design consultation with a Shasta pool expert. During this one-on-one meeting, you’ll talk with a real person who will help you compare base packages, explore upgrade possibilities, and review sample pool designs tailored to your lifestyle.

We’ll also take the time to walk you through real pricing, explain what’s included, and provide a custom quote—so you’ll have a clear picture with no surprises. If you're serious about building a pool and want expert guidance without the pressure, your next step is simple: schedule your free design consultation today.